Industry leaders to examine the talent, technology and supply chain capabilities needed to unlock future growth
What will the UK composites industry need to look like in 2035 to take advantage of the opportunities ahead? That question will be at the heart of Composites UK’s Composites 2035: Talent, Technology and Industry Growth event, taking place at the GKN Global Technology Centre on 15 September 2026.
The trade association for the UK composites supply chain will bring together leaders from across industry, technology, education and government to explore the trends and opportunities that could shape the next decade for the sector and, crucially, what needs to happen now to ensure the supply chain is ready.
The event will open with a look at where the industry is heading and the opportunities for growth, with Eric Pierrejean of JEC Group examining global trends across key sectors. Ann Watson of Enginuity and Matt Scott and Mark Summers of the National Composites Centre will consider the skills, capabilities and technologies required to support future demand.
A panel discussion featuring representatives from across the supply chain, including Taylor Durban of Safran Seats, will ask whether the industry is equipped to resource the anticipated growth.
Attention will then turn to technology and productivity, exploring how digital transformation and improved manufacturing capability can help create more resilient and competitive supply chains. Speakers include Simon Smith of Brookhouse Aerospace and Steve Barbour of Composites Braiding.
The final session will focus on perhaps the industry’s most important long-term asset: people. Richard Hollis of Syensqo, Janice Barton of the University of Bristol, Vino Saaran of Multi-Ply and John Watton of GKN Aerospace will examine workforce development, graduate talent, STEM engagement and apprenticeships. They will be joined by Peter Quigley of Athena Blue Innovation and Euan Carlile from the Department for Work and Pensions for a panel discussion on how education and industry can work together to develop the capabilities of tomorrow.
As the UK looks to grow its advanced manufacturing capability, Composites 2035 will provide an opportunity to consider not just where the industry is going, but what needs to change today to make that future possible.
Click here for more details and to register
Manufacturing & Engineering Magazine | The Home of Manufacturing Industry News
